How we make a difference

We strengthen the foundation of communities through:

Youth Development

We believe in nurturing the potential of every child and teen. The Y creates safe, structured environments for young people to become their best selves. Through high-quality programs grounded in youth development theory, we harness communities to invest in 8.86 million kids nationwide, fostering growth and development.

Healthy Living

We believe wellness comes from a balance in spirit, mind, and body, and that with connections and support, everyone, at every age, can make healthier choices. We’re committed to improving health and well-being by empowering all people to lead fuller lives. 20.6 million receive support and guidance through the Y.

Social Responsibility

We believe that when we work together, we move individuals, families, and communities forward. Since 1884, the Y has responded to society’s pressing needs by uniting people from all walks of life for social change. 58% of YMCAs serve communities where household income is below the national average.

"Diabetes was a significant factor in my mother’s life and death. I grew up with doctors wanting to test my blood sugar, but in my early years I denied it. I recently decided that the  best way to stop living under the cloud of diabetes was to actively do something to prevent it, so I took the Risk Assessment and joined the Y’s Diabetes Prevention Program... The program taught me that I have the ability to take charge of my health."

– Vicky, Peninsula Family YMCA

Think Globally, Act Locally

MY YMCA

Each Y, unique to its community and addressing local needs, is governed by its own board. Our contributions range from creating lasting social change to helping individual children learn to swim.

YMCA OF GREATER SAN FRANCISCO

Founded in 1853, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco has a rich history of community building. We now operate 14 branches, 54 after-school programs, and 120 sites in the San Francisco area.

YMCA OF THE USA

With 2,700 Y’s and a national resource office, Y of the USA drives grassroots social change through targeted programs and advocacy. 67.7 million households and 33.7 million children live within 3 miles of a YMCA.

GLOBAL YMCA'S

The Y has a local presence and global reach, serving over 45 million people in 119 countries. The YMCA plays a crucial role in enhancing leadership and youth programs worldwide.

Why We're Here

50%

Research shows youth participating in after-school programs have a 50% higher chance of successfully graduating from high school.

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58%

Studies indicate that 58% of new Type 2 Diabetes cases can be prevented through effective programs such as YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program.

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1 in 5

One in five children are obese by age five, making today's kids the first generation predicted to have shorter lifespans than their parents.

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3 years

By 8th grade, children who miss summer learning, like camp, lag 3 years academically, especially affecting low-income families.

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In the US, the Y is the largest charitable organization:

554,000 Volunteers

in over 10,000 communities nationwide, from urban to rural, we represent a diverse range of faiths and ethnicities.

Over 2,700 Ys

across the USA focuses on diabetes prevention and offers social, emotional, and physical wellness throughout life.

9 Million Youths Nationwide

are supported by the Y, from preschool to high school, in after-school programs and summer camps to reach their highest potential.

GET INVOLVED IN SOMETHING GREAT!